Argentina captain Lionel Messi has delivered an emotional message ahead of Sunday's 2026 FIFA World Cup final against Spain, reflecting on his unforgettable journey with the national team as speculation continues over whether the match could be his final appearance in an Argentina shirt.
The 39-year-old, who is aiming to lead Argentina to a second consecutive World Cup title, took to social media to thank his teammates, coaching staff and everyone involved with the national team, insisting that this generation has already secured its place in football history regardless of the result in New Jersey.
"The nicest thing about all these years was never just the titles, but the whole journey," Messi wrote on Instagram.
"Sharing every day with this group, competing together, getting back up in difficult moments and enjoying every step."
The eight-time Ballon d'Or winner also expressed his gratitude to everyone behind the scenes, adding: "Thank you to each of my teammates, the coaching staff and all the people who work every day to keep this team a family."
Messi concluded his message by emphasizing that the squad's legacy has already been secured.
"Whatever happens, this group has already written a history that we will never forget and that no one will be able to erase."
Sunday's final could mark the end of an extraordinary international career. Earlier this year, Messi admitted he would decide whether to play at the 2026 World Cup only after listening to his body, with his participation confirmed only when head coach Lionel Scaloni announced the final Argentina squad.
The Argentine legend famously retired from international football in 2016 following the Copa América final defeat to Chile, also played at MetLife Stadium, before reversing his decision after overwhelming support from fans.
Since returning, Messi has guided Argentina to the 2021 Copa América title and the 2022 FIFA World Cup, while continuing to inspire a generation that now stands one victory away from back-to-back world titles.
Despite ongoing retirement speculation, Scaloni recently insisted that Messi will continue representing Argentina "as long as he wants." When asked ahead of the final whether it would be Messi's farewell, the Argentina coach admitted he had no answers.
"What do I know? Ask him," Scaloni said with a smile. "I don't have the faintest idea, to be honest. He doesn't stop surprising us."
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